Southeast Asia has probably the most majestic rice terraces on the earth. Rice terraces are considered the essential needs of agriculture, but additionally they showcase the fantastic thing about natural landscapes.
Livelihoods and natural geography
Rice terraces are flat fields built on hills or mountains, forming steps. The agricultural system works by utilizing renewable water sources and minimizing soil degradation.
For example, the normal subak approach to diverting water through a network of dikes and canals remains to be used on the rice terraces in Bali.
It is thought that almost all Southeast Asian countries depend on these rice fields for his or her economic and food needs. The terraces also became tourist attractions and supported the local economy.
Therefore, countries comparable to Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines often export or import rice products because rice production is abundant.
Read also: The most beautiful rice terraces on the earth
Ingenuity and cultural significance
The symphony of greenery on rice terraces is usually intertwined with the culture of a given region, and sometimes with local folklore or rituals.
For example, in Ifugao culture, rituals and offerings are made to ancestral spirits to make sure a successful harvest. Rice cultivation in Bali, Indonesia can be known to be related to Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice and fertility, in line with Hindu beliefs.
The fields are artificial and authentic because indigenous farmers within the region have been cultivating them for hundreds of years. These are examples of traditional farming methods that promote sustainability.
Remarkable rice terraces in Southeast Asia
1. Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines
The Philippines has the oldest rice terraces on the earth and has even been included within the UNESCO World Heritage List “The Eighth Wonder of the World”. Carved hundreds of years ago, rice terraces served the Ifugao people.
2. Mu Cang Chai Rice Terraces, Vietnam
In the northern highlands of Vietnam, mainly in town of Sapa, there are terraced fields which can be often praised for his or her golden color during harvest season.
3. Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Bali, Indonesia
Located within the deeper, suburban a part of Ubud, Bali, the terraces are also linked to local communities by Hindu beliefs.
4. Pa Pong Piang Rice Terraces, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Terraces in northern Thailand provided peace and quiet, a lush, green atmosphere that also provided rice for farmers and families.
